Recent surveys have noted a drop in the percentage of women who study architecture versus those who are in practice - a number that goes down even further when you look at the number of firm partners and principals who are women. While it is difficult to pinpoint why this is happening, one thing we know is that we can help the cause by providing mentorship to the young women currently transitioning into the profession from graduate school.

BEAT’s Annual Leadership Seminar is an event dedicated to exposing students and young practitioners to leaders in the architectural profession. From sole practitioners to partners in leading design firms, the seminar speakers are architects and academics who have established successful careers. The talks and tours that follow showcase the breadth of the profession and speak to the numerous ways to navigate a career in the built environment.

Dimitra Papantonis is a Senior Associate at Williamson Williamson Inc. As a Founding Executive Committee Member of BEAT, Dimitra has focused on the annual Seminar which provides recent graduates and young professionals exposure to more experienced members in the industry.